anyone ever have a short lapse in licensure and be asked to return pay for that time?

[wendyh]

I'm an independent RN and work for two different clients who recieve funding from the state. My checks come from the state of Wisconsin. Almost 2 years ago I inadvertantly let my license lapse for a month. I had been working during that time. I just got a letter in the mail from the state demanding that I send them a check for the 5 grand that I earned during that time. Wow. It was my mistake, but in my mind, it's simply a clerical error and I worked hard that month. Anyone have any perspective for me on this one?

At the very least, let this be a learning moment for anyone else working independently. Perhaps I can help another nurse who became complacant about licensure, CPR and other certification after working for many years in a facility which always kept their eyes on those things!

[elkpark]

IMO, you're lucky they're "only" asking for the money back and aren't going after you for practicing nursing without a license! The day your license expires, you're no longer a registered nurse and not legal to practice ... I haven't known anyone in your specific situation before, but I've worked with people who inadvertently let their licenses lapse, and the next day they showed up for work at the hospital, they were met on arrival by their NM, and sent home (without pay) until they were licensed again. Professional licenses (of any kind) are serious business, and practicing nursing without a license is not simply a "clerical error."